Exelis upgrading Harrier's weapon carriage and release system

AMITYVILLE, N.Y., Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Upgraded weapons carriage and release systems for AV-8B Harrier aircraft are being supplied to the U.S. Navy by Exelis.

The company said the contract from the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command for 181 BRU-70/A digital improved triple ejector rack units is worth $13 million.

With increased carriage capacity and "smart" precision-guided payload compatibility, the so-called DITER system represents a significant capability upgrade for Harrier.

"The DITER delivers a modern, high-performance airborne carriage and release capability," said Pete Martin, director of defense systems for the Exelis electronic attack and release systems business area. "The systems will improve the Harrier's ability to deliver payloads successfully and will contribute to overall mission effectiveness."

Exelis said 20 of the 181 units being produced are to be transferred to Spain, a member of the U.S. Navy-administered joint international program. Deliveries of the units to the Navy will begin in the middle of next year and be completed by March 2016.

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